When you first jump into Helldivers 2 on PC, the transition to mouse and keyboard controls can feel a bit overwhelming. With so many actions to remember—from calling in stratagems to managing your reloads—having a clear approach to your setup makes all the difference. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you get comfortable and start pulling your weight in every mission.

Master Your Keybinds Early

One of the biggest challenges in Helldivers 2 is quickly entering stratagem codes while under fire. By default, the key combinations rely heavily on the arrow keys, but many players rebind them to something easier to hit without moving their hands too far. Consider using WASD for stratagem inputs to keep your fingers closer to the action. This makes it easier to call down reinforcements or airstrikes while staying mobile.

Use Your Mouse Settings Wisely

Precision aiming is key, especially when facing armored enemies. Adjust your DPI to a comfortable level that balances speed and accuracy. Some players prefer a lower sensitivity for fine aiming, while others stick with higher settings for quicker reaction times. Test both and see what feels most natural. Also, binding melee or grenade throws to extra mouse buttons can save you precious seconds in chaotic firefights.

Movement and Awareness

Unlike controllers, where movement is analog, keyboard input is digital—you’re either moving or not. To compensate, practice strafing and weaving to avoid incoming fire. Since enemies swarm aggressively, always keep an eye on your minimap and stay aware of your squad’s positioning. Learning to sprint, dive, and reload at the right moments is essential for survival.

Communicate with Quick Inputs

Voice chat is great, but sometimes typing or pinging is faster. Get used to the quick communication keys, as they help coordinate objectives without breaking focus. For beginners, relying on these shortcuts can make up for slower reaction times when things get hectic.

Progression and Resources

As you progress, you’ll want to expand your gear and customize your loadout. Many players look for ways to buy Helldivers 2 medals or buy Helldivers 2 items to unlock new weapons and armor more efficiently. Whether you’re grinding in-game or considering other methods, make sure your gear choices complement your playstyle, especially when tackling higher-difficulty missions.

Practice Stratagem Speed

New players often get caught fumbling inputs in the heat of battle. One way to train is to practice entering stratagem codes outside of combat until they become second nature. Start with the most important ones, like Resupply and Reinforcement, and work your way up to the more complex ones like orbital bombardments.

Mouse and keyboard controls in Helldivers 2 offer excellent precision and flexibility once you get used to them. By fine-tuning your settings, practicing stratagem inputs, and staying aware of your squad and surroundings, you’ll be ready to contribute effectively to any mission. Stick with it, and soon you’ll find that the intensity of the controls matches the intensity of the battlefield itself.